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Wat Phra Yai (Big Buddha), Koh Samui - Thailand

In the north of Samui is Bo Phut beach – otherwise known as Big Buddha beach after the nearby temple. The beach isn't anything special but has a more laid back vibe than much of the island with a nice selection of restaurants.

Wat Phra Yai temple is on a small island, connected by a causeway to the mainland and relatively new with very shiny mosiac walls and roof. The temple is dominated by the huge Buddha perched at the top of some steps overlooking the rolling hills to the north of the island. You can also see across the channel to the hills of neighbouring Koh Pha Ngan.

The temple itself is small in an open courtyard with a massive tiled naga staircase climbing to the top sanctuary. Here the large gold Buddha, framed by a dharma wheel smiles serenely down on visitors and prayer bells chime with worshipers wishes.